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Detroit auto show: 2013 Hyundai Genesis coupe gets a fresh attitude

The Hyundai Genesis coupe launched in 2009 to much enthusiast fanfare, and it quickly gained a following among tuners and premium customers with sporty inclinations.

Fast-forward three years, and Hyundai appears to be gaining confidence and truly coming into its own in the athletic two-door segment, cranking up the power, adding a number of appearance-enhancing styling cues and improving the interior.

Most significant are the underhood upgrades, which see the power output grow impressively thanks to twin-scroll technology. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder now makes about 274 hp on premium fuel and at least 260 hp on regular--up substantially from the engine's current 210-hp rating. Torque surges from 223 lb-ft to 275 lb-ft.

The 3.8-liter V6 also is rated at an estimated 348 hp, up from the current level of 306 hp. Torque also increases from 266 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft.

An eight-speed automatic transmission and improved six-speed manual gearbox will round out the powertrain configurations.

A V8 has long been rumored for the Genesis coupe, and Hyundai even showed a concept with one at the 2011 SEMA show in Las Vegas, but company brass won't tip their hand as to the future of the engine in the sports coupe. The Genesis sedan, which shares the same basic underpinnings as the two-door, offers 4.6-liter and 5.0-liter V8 options.

The front end was significantly redone, with a larger grille, headlights and hood vent. There also are LEDs available on uplevel trims. The back gets more detailed headlights, and the inside is upgraded with real stitching, a better steering wheel and a premium-looking gauge cluster. Hyundai's connectivity technology, called BlueLink, is also added.

"We tried to make a bolder and more distinctive statement," said Mike O'Brien, Hyundai vice president of product and corporate planning.

Hyundai says the coupe will check in at less than 3,500 pounds, and there are new front shocks with different damping and spring rates. It rolls on 18- or 19-inch wheels. Pricing will be announced soon.